Kentavious Caldwell-Pope became the first player impacted by the Denver Nuggets’ strategy to evade the luxury tax’s second apron while aiming for another NBA title.
Michael Porter Jr. might be the next player affected, especially with Jamal Murray‘s contract extension on the horizon, potentially worth four years and $208.5 million, according to Bobby Marks from ESPN.
Greg Swartz of Bleacher Report suggested a three-team trade that would help the Nuggets cut costs while acquiring two former lottery picks in return.
Proposed Trade:
Denver Nuggets Receive: Forward Cam Johnson, Forward Ziaire Williams
Detroit Pistons Receive: Forward Michael Porter Jr.
Brooklyn Nets Receive: Forward/Center Isaiah Stewart, Shooting Guard Tim Hardaway Jr., 2025 second-round pick (via Toronto Raptors), 2027 second-round pick (via Detroit Pistons)
Cam Johnson: A Cost-Effective and Better Defender
Johnson could be a more affordable option for the Nuggets and offers superior defense compared to Porter, particularly if he returns to his previous form with the Phoenix Suns. Playing on a contender might revitalize Johnson after a challenging season with the Brooklyn Nets.
Johnson’s 39.2% three-point shooting is nearly on par with Porter’s 41%.
“Trading Porter for Johnson would significantly reduce the Nuggets’ future expenses, with Johnson earning $68.8 million over the next three years compared to Porter’s projected $115 million,” Swartz noted.
Williams might be considered an additional piece, but he could provide value as a depth option or be traded at the deadline.
“This financial relief would help the Nuggets maintain their core of Nikola Jokić, Jamal Murray, and Aaron Gordon without compromising on skill. Denver would save $6.1 million this season and another $6.1 million next summer when Williams’ contract expires, in addition to the salary difference between Porter and Johnson,” Swartz added.
Porter could enhance the Pistons’ spacing for their young talents like Cade Cunningham, Jaden Ivey, and Jalen Duren, while the Nets would gain draft picks and an expiring contract for potential trade opportunities.
Off-Court Issues Affecting Michael Porter Jr.
Porter Jr. struggled with self-blame for the Nuggets’ inability to defend their NBA title.
“There are a lot of things we could’ve done differently as a team,” Porter reflected after their Game 7 loss to the Timberwolves. “But I know if I would’ve played my part, we would’ve won this series. And I’ve got to live with that.”
